The scorching summer heat has cast its shadow over the usual hustle and bustle at the revered Golden Temple, where footfall has witnessed a significant decline in recent days.
Traditionally, the Golden Temple, a spiritual cornerstone in Amritsar, witnesses a steady stream of devotees, ranging between 90,000 to 100,000 daily. However, temple authorities have reported a stark decrease, with the current count plummeting to nearly half of its usual numbers.
Attributing this decline to the oppressive heat, officials have nonetheless taken proactive measures to ensure the comfort and convenience of devotees. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has implemented special arrangements to mitigate the effects of the soaring temperatures.
Narinder Singh, the manager overseeing the parikrama, noted the challenges posed by the blistering heat, particularly on the marble pathway encircling the sacred pool. To counter this, SGPC staff and volunteers have been tirelessly dousing the pathway with water from the holy pool, maintaining a constant dampness to alleviate discomfort for pilgrims.
Efforts to combat the heat extend beyond the parikrama, with the sanctum sanctorum equipped with air-conditioning units running round the clock. Additionally, a sophisticated water vapor sprinkling system has been installed, providing a refreshing mist to waiting devotees outside the inner sanctum.
Innovative solutions have been implemented throughout the complex, including the replacement of traditional carpets with cooler jute mats and the installation of fans and coolers in verandas to provide respite from the sun’s rays.
Jagdish, a pilgrim from Maharashtra, commended the arrangements, expressing gratitude for the efforts to ensure the comfort of visitors. “Despite the oppressive heat, the temple management has made adequate provisions for pilgrims,” he remarked, noting the efficacy of the water sprinkling system in combating the heat and facilitating ease of movement along the parikrama.
As temperatures continue to soar, the Golden Temple remains a beacon of solace and spirituality, adapting to ensure that devotees can seek refuge and solace in its hallowed halls, even amidst the sweltering summer heat.
